The Barcelona star picked up the award for the fourth straight year, but the former Inter boss feels that his charge's exploits in La Liga should have seen him pip his rival.

"Cristiano should have won the award to the best player in the world," he told RTP1.

"He was champion in La Liga, he was decisive in the league with all the records."

Messi broke Gerd Muller's 40-year strong record of 85 goals for club and country in a calendar year to win the award, but only won the Copa del Rey as Barca surrendered their Spanish and European crowns.

Ronaldo, meanwhile, scored 46 goals in 38 Liga appearances as Madrid became the first team to record a tally of 100 points, netting a record 121 times in the process.